The number of tropical cyclones globally has remained stable over the past four decades, with an annual average of 47, but their intensity has significantly increased, according to international databases.
Recent data shows that the average maximum wind speed of cyclones has risen from 182 km/h to 192 km/h over the last decade, reflecting a 5% increase. Additionally, the frequency of category five cyclones—those with winds exceeding 250 km/h—has surged by 40%.
This growing intensity aligns with findings from the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which attributes stronger cyclones to the impacts of climate change.
As of December 15, 2024, 42 cyclones were recorded globally, with 19 making landfall. The western Pacific, particularly the Philippines, bore the brunt in 2024, experiencing 15 typhoons, six of which hit landfall in the country.
